Rockville Centre remembers those lost on 9/11

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Rockville Centre held a candlelight ceremony on Sunday in memory of the 49 community members whose lives were lost as a result of the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.

At the start of the ceremony, a total of 2,996 flags were placed in the park honoring each victim of the attacks, a tradition started by Boy Scout Troop 848 three years ago, on the 15th anniversary. Mayor Francis X. Murray spoke about the attacks and the importance of holding the annual memorial service to honor loved ones lost and Monsignor William Koenig of St. Agnes said a prayer with the crowd. All of the names of Rockville Centre residents killed as a result of the attacks are inscribed on the memorial and were read aloud by village trustees.

During the ceremony Melissa Barrett, whose brother John was killed in the attacks, spoke of the acts of kindness shown by others after her loss and thanked the town for holding the ceremony, which has grown every year.

A closing prayer was given by Rabbi Howard Diamond of Congregation B’Nai Sholom-Beth David. American Legion Post Commander Frank Colon played taps at the end of the ceremony.